Vibrant orange salmon fillets get a double dose of crunchy almonds, one in the pesto and one in the topping.

November 28, 2016

Vibrant orange salmon fillets get a double dose of crunchy almonds, one in the pesto and one in the topping. The lovely green pesto is easy to make and gets a delightful flavor boost – without salt – from the garlic-herb seasoning blend. For a quick and pretty dish, scatter the almonds over the surface, as instructed below. If you prefer a fancier presentation, after spreading the pesto over the salmon, slightly overlap the almonds on the fillets to resemble fish scales, and then bake as directed.

Ingredients:

​4 salmon fillets (about 4 oz each), rinsed and patted dry

1 ⁄4 cup sliced almonds

Cooking spray (optional)

Cilantro Pesto

1 ⁄2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro

3 TBSPs fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth

2 TBSPs sliced almonds

2 TBSPs shredded or grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp salt-free garlic-herb seasoning blend

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or lightly spray with cooking spray.

In a food processor or blender, process the pesto ingredients for 15 to 20 seconds, or until slightly chunky.

Place the fillets about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Spread the pesto evenly over the top of the fillets. Sprinkle with 1 ⁄4 cup almonds.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.